Mon Oncle

Mon Oncle is a movie with a lot of subtle humor. You don't need subtitles as all speaks for itself. Also Monsieur Hulot only speaks when they ask for his name. It is an attack on modern times with the stupid superfluous technology that does not serve but make people crazy. Also the snobs are made ridiculous by their own technology and children, The film starts and ends with dogs. The dogs more or less are an example how man could be: free, having fun without the the obstacles of daily life they create themselves. The dogs are the winners. The children show us how adults easily can be fooled and also they always win.

In most of his movies there is only one typical french soundtrack that is constantly repeated, it enhances the suggestion of being in France and part of it. The sound is separately added to the movie and has the effect your hearing is far more sensitive. This also enhances the effect of being part of it.

The house with this special gravel garden is shocking modern considering the 50's the film was made. It is almost a piece of avant-garde art.

Take your time to watch it. This movie is art, not just another film that rolls out of a movie factory. Tati creates his own world that shows us who we are. Tati made his masterpiece but I can understand many people will not notice all the humor that passes.

Like in "Vacanses de Monsieur Hulot" and "Jour de Fete" there are so many subtle moments of humor, it is normal you will miss some.

It may be "The Party" with Peter Sellers was inspired by Mon Oncle as it has the same ingredients: the modern house with technology and the snobs that own it.

There is not anyone else who made films like Tati. In Europe Tati always was respected and admired for his work. Except for "Trafik" I have all films on DVD. All members of a family can watch these films.